Basic tattoo equipment

Most people have a general grasp of what it takes to do a tattoo,
however some aren’t sure of the basic necessities that are
required to preform a sterile, and proper tattoo. The following
are names, and descriptions of the items you will need to get started.

Autoclave: By far one of the most important items
in a tattoo shop. The autoclave provides a way for the needles,
grips, and tubes to be sterilized properly. Autoclaves are a device
that exposes items to steam at high pressure in order to decontaminate
the materials and render them sterile. All of the items will need
to be wrapped individually and un-wrapped in front of the client.

Ultrasonic: The ultrasonic is a device that emits
high frequency vibrations to remove deposits of ink throughout the
tattoo. It should also be used before changing ink pigments. It
is also used prior to the sterilization of grips, and tubes to break
up dried ink.

Tattoo machine: This of course is one of the
most important items in a tattoo artist’s arsenal. The machine
utilizes electromagnetic coils in alternation to move the needle
bar up, and down which drives the pigment into the skin. You will
also need a power supply, clip cord, and foot pedal.

Tubes and grips: The back tube is inserted into
the machine, and is used to align the needles properly in the machine.
The grips, are a vital part in making sure your hands don’t
get cramped during the tattoo process. Most male artists find that
1 ½ inch grips are the most comfortable fit, as a female
artist I prefer the 1 inch, or ½ inch grips depending on
what I am doing.

Needles: Tattoo needles come in a variety of sizes,
your standard needles for lining are 3 round liners, or 5 round
liners. Common shading needles are the flats, or mags. Flat needles
stack the needles on two , or three rows depending on the size.
Mags have a staggered stack of needles which allows a more even
flow of pigment.

Green soap: This is a liquid soap made of vegetable
oils, it is used in cleaning the skin in preparation for the tattoo.
It serves as an ideal way to clean excess ink from the work in progress,
and also upon completion of the tattoo before it is covered.

Petroleum or Bacitracin: These are used in similar
manners, however the Petroleum is only used for the lubrication
throughout the tattoo. Bacitracin can be used throughout to aid
in lubrication, and after the tattoo is completed.

Plastic cup: This seems rather mediocre, however
it will provide a way for you to use your ultrasonic without the
risk of cross-contamination.

Spray bottles: You should have a spray bottle
filled with Green soap, and one with water. The water will aid you
in making washes of color.

Plastic wrap: The plastic wrap should be placed
on any surfaces that the tattoo will be on. Such as chair arms,
and tattoo beds. This also prevents cross-contamination from one
client to the next.

Ink: You may find that you will have to go through
several brands of ink to find the ones you like. Look for an ink
that stays vibrant in the skin after completion of the tattoo, ease
of application, and make sure you don’t have to turn your
client’s skin into hamburger for it to properly penetrate
the skin.

Ink caps and holder: The ink caps are small plastic
cups that are used to hold the ink. You should always fill the cups
prior to tattooing. If you need to re-fill the caps, remove your
gloves and do so. Keep the tip of the ink bottle away from the ink
caps! As they will become contaminated throughout the tattooing
process.

Gloves: The gloves are self explanatory, you should
always try to use latex free gloves as some clients may have allergies.
Gloves that are powdered can irritate the skin.

Sharps or hazard bin: This is a bin that you will
deposit needles, and ink cups into as they are one-time use items
and become contaminated through the tattooing process. The hazards
bin should be disposed of properly after it is full. You will need
to look up your local laws on hazardous waste disposal.

Related topics:

Ink
controversy & risks
There has been an outburst of controversy in the past few months.
Where in the state of California, two major manufacturers of Tattoo
ink have been accused of exposing people to dangerous levels of
lead and other metals

Proper
body piercing aftercare
Piercing aftercare should be taken just as seriously as tattoo aftercare.
Your piercing is going to need some commitment, if you slack on
your aftercare, you can cause serious infection, and the need to
remove the jewelry.

Deciding
on a tattoo design
All too often, in the world of tattoos you see people come in spur
of the whim. But, in an honest opinion tattoos aren’t something
you just do.

Equipment
& products
We sell hard-to-find equipment for all your salon or studio needs.
Take a minute to peruse our tattoo supply selection – you
and your customers will be impressed with what we offer.

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